South United FC Open Durand Cup Campaign with Convincing Victory Over CISF Protectors
By Suman Munshi
IBG NEWS
Kolkata, July 28: South United FC made a dream start to their 135th IndianOil Durand Cup campaign, registering their maiden victory in the prestigious tournament with a commanding 2-0 win over CISF Protectors in a Group A clash at Kishore Bharati Krirangan on Tuesday.
After an evenly fought first half, the Bengaluru-based club found its rhythm after the break, scoring twice in the second half to secure all three points and move to the top of the Group A standings.
The breakthrough came in the 65th minute when defender Rishik Shetty capitalised on a rebound inside the penalty area. A well-delivered corner found Rowan James, whose powerful header was brilliantly saved by CISF goalkeeper Raj Kumar Mahato. The ball struck the post before falling kindly to Rishik, who calmly slotted it home to hand South United the lead.
South United sealed the contest in the 84th minute with substitute Ashish Chetry making an immediate impact. Midfielder Abhiram produced a precise cross from the right wing, allowing Chetry to finish from close range and double his team’s advantage.
Tactical Battle
South United head coach Kaja Mohideen Bhadussa deployed an attacking 3-4-3 formation, relying on defender Rowan James to organise the backline while looking to exploit width and quick transitions. CISF Protectors, coached by Shehzad Khan, lined up in a balanced 4-4-2 system, hoping to create chances through experienced striker Jacob C and captain Pawan Pratap Singh.
The opening half saw CISF Protectors dominate possession and launch several attacking moves, but South United’s disciplined defence successfully absorbed the pressure. As the game progressed, South United gradually gained control of midfield, with Makakmayum Daniyal and M.D. Altab Hussain creating several promising opportunities.
Despite a series of corners and long-range attempts from both teams, neither side managed to find the net before halftime.
Second-Half Turnaround
The second period began with CISF pressing aggressively in search of an opening goal. Midfielder Thangminlien Haokip tested the South United goalkeeper with a powerful long-range effort, but the shot was comfortably dealt with.
South United responded positively and eventually broke the deadlock through a well-executed set-piece. The goal shifted the momentum entirely in their favour, allowing the Bengaluru side to control the remainder of the match.
CISF Protectors nearly equalised when Gurpal Singh found himself in a promising position inside the penalty area, but his effort sailed over the crossbar, proving to be their best opportunity of the game.
Ashish Chetry’s late strike effectively ended CISF’s hopes of a comeback, while South United’s organised defensive display ensured they preserved a valuable clean sheet.
Strong Start to the Campaign
The victory gives South United FC an ideal beginning to their Durand Cup journey, boosting confidence ahead of their remaining Group A fixtures. The team’s balanced performance in defence and attack demonstrated its growing maturity as it seeks to make a deeper impact in one of Asia’s oldest football tournaments.
For CISF Protectors, despite showing promise during the opening stages, missed opportunities and an inability to convert possession into goals ultimately proved costly.
All 43 matches of the 135th IndianOil Durand Cup are being broadcast live on the Sony Sports Network and streamed on SonyLIV.
Tomorrow’s Fixture
Indian Air Force FT vs Defenders FC (Sri Lanka)
Venue: Birsa Munda Football Stadium, Ranchi
Kick-off: 7:00 PM
